Just The Facts: BMW i8 and BMW i3

Earlier today, BMW unveiled their future and biggest best ever for the Munich-based brand. The new BMW i3 and BMW i8 plan to disrupt the …

Earlier today, BMW unveiled their future and biggest best ever for the Munich-based brand. The new BMW i3 and BMW i8 plan to disrupt the electric and hybrids segment delivering not only high-efficiency, but also performance.

The i3, previously known as Megacity Vehicle, is based around a light CFRP body structure and rides on a predominantly aluminum chassis. The BMW i3 provides four adult occupants with excellent all-round visibility, as well as an impressive 200 liters of luggage space behind the rear seats. At 3845mm in length, 2011mm in width and 1537mm in height, the five-door i3 is 120mm longer, 326mm wider and 132mm higher than the Mini One.

The plug-in system is a compact electric motor mounted over the rear axle. It draws energy from the battery to provide drive to the rear wheels via a single-speed transmission. As we announced a few months back, BMW says the i3 will be offered with an optional range extender powertrain (called REx) to satisfy those with longer commutes.

The star of the automotive industry in today’s news is the new BMW i8. At 349 horsepower and nearly 80 mpg fuel consumption, the BMW i8 will set a benchmark in the performance segment. Initially previewed by the Vision EfficientDynamics (Vision ED) concept back in 2009, the super-sporty two-door i8 has already undergone two years of intensive development. The major change is a new 1.5 liter petrol engine replacing the initial diesel unit of same capacity. The engine is mounted at the rear and drives via a dual-clutch gearbox. BMW says the i8 runs a 0-62mph in just 4.6 sec – 0.3 sec faster than the M3 Coupe.

The weight of 1480kg is the equivalent to a power-to-weight ratio of 236 horsepower per 1000 kilograms.

BMW i8 measures 4632mm in length, 1955mm in width and 1280mm in height, comparable to the 3 Series coupe in dimensions.